Maruti Ignis vs Baleno

Maruti launched the Baleno hatchback in India last year and the car became an instant hit. Along the way, it managed to steal some of Swift‘s customers thanks to the narrow price gap. A similar situation could arise once the Ignis arrives in showroom later this year. Not only will it share floor space with the Baleno, it is likely to be powered by the same set of engines as well. Add to that Indian customers’ current love for anything even remotely resembling an SUV and a certain degree of cannibalism seems inevitable. In this Maruti Ignis vs Baleno comparison, we will compare the upcoming mini SUV with the popular hatchback.

The prices mentioned below (for Maruti Ignis) are estimated figures. Actual pricing could vary. According to our estimates, the Ignis will be cheaper than the Baleno. Pricing of the Ignis will be similar to that of the Ritz. We will have to wait for the official launch to find out the exact difference in the pricing of the two. Automatic variants of the Ignis will be cheaper thanks to the use of a 5-speed AMT gearbox.

In all probability, Ignis will share its engine lineup with the Baleno. Therefore, both cars will be powered by the same 1.2 L Petrol and 1.3 L Diesel motors. The Petrol variants, unlike the Baleno, will get a 5-speed AMT instead of a CVT. Claimed fuel mileage figures of the Ignis could be close to the Baleno’s 27.39 kpl (diesel) and 21.4 Kpl (petrol). There have been rumours suggesting Maruti will employ mild hybrid tech, similar to the Ciaz SHVS, in the Ignis as well.

Maruti Ignis vs Maruti Baleno Mileage Comparison

Maruti Ignis

Maruti Baleno

Diesel

25 kpl (est.)

27.39 kpl

Petrol

21 kpl (est.)

21.4 kpl

Maruti is claiming an overall fuel efficiency of 27.39 kpl for the diesel variants of the Baleno. We wouldn’t be surprised the Ignis matching that figure. If the Ignis gets SHVS technology or mild hybrid tech then that figure could go up to around 28 kpl. Baleno petrol returns an ARAI certified fuel mileage of 21.4 kpl. The Ignis’ will be as much as that, if not more.

Maruti Ignis vs Baleno Dimensions

Maruti Ignis

Maruti Baleno

Length x Width x Height

3693 x 1709 x 1566 mm

3995 x 1745 x 1500 mm

Wheelbase

2438 mm

2520 mm

Kerb Weight

920 kg

870 – 970 kg

Wheel Type and Size

16-inch alloys

16-inch alloys

Boot Space

258 L

339 L

While the Ignis is shorter in length and narrower than the Baleno, it will be taller. The international spec Ignis weighs 920 kg which is more than the Baleno. Ignis’ 258 L boot is no match for the Baleno’s massive 339 L luggage space.

Maruti Ignis vs Baleno Features Comparison

Maruti will be selling the Ignis through the Nexa dealership network meant for their premium models. This means the micro-SUV will come with all the bells and whistles. Highlights will include dual front airbags, ABS, LED daytime running lights, projector headlamps, touchscreen infotainment system and more. Maruti offers the Baleno with all the aforementioned features. So, there won’t be much to set them apart solely based on the equipment list.

Maruti Ignis

Maruti Baleno

Air Conditioner Type

Automatic Climate Control

Automatic Climate Control

Power Windows

Yes (4)

Yes (4)

Central Locking

Keyless Entry and go

Keyless Entry and go

Steering Audio Controls

Yes

Yes

Audio System

SmartPlay Touchscreen

SmartPlay Touchscreen

Airbags

2

2

ABS

Yes

Yes

Maruti Ignis vs Baleno Design Comparison

Baleno’s styling seems to have gone down very well with the India car buying lot. Although the exterior seems a bit bulbous from some angles, the Baleno is overall is a smart looking hatchback. The Maruti Ignis will not deviate much from the concept showcased at the Auto Expo in terms of design. Bits like the big, chrome lined grille housing the headlamps, LED daytime running lights, etc. will find their way to the production-spec Ignis. Expect a generous dose of body cladding along with faux skid plates and roof rails. These SUV-like design elements will be the Ignis’ biggest selling points.

Maruti has given the Baleno an all-black interior treatment. The centre console is one of the best bits of the Baleno’s cabin. Like the Baleno, the touchscreen infotainment system or the audio system in the Ignis does not sit flush with the centre console. The two cars could end up sharing bits like the SmartPlay touchscreen infotainment system, gear knob, steering wheel, etc. In order to spruce things up a little, the Ignis’ cabin could get body coloured highlights.

Maruti Ignis vs Baleno Comparison – Verdict

Maruti’s upcoming Ignis could turn out to be a huge hit among the SUV-crazy Indians. However, there’s a lot riding on the pricing of the Maruti Ignis. Therefore, we will be able to provide a final word only after the Maruti Ignis India launch takes place.

Price – Maruti is expected to price the Ignis below the Baleno. However, there will be a price overlap for sure resulting in cannibalism within the ranks of Maruti Suzuki.

What do you think of our Maruti Ignis vs Baleno comparison? Do let us know in the comments section below. Stay tuned to Car Blog India for more updates on the Maruti Ignis vs Baleno comparison. Also stay tuned for review of the new Ignis.